Nigeria Targets World Relays Qualification in US Events

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), led by President Tonobok Okowa, is focusing on securing qualification for the 2026 World Athletics Relays during competitions in the United States. This decision follows a disappointing performance at the World Indoor Championships, prompting the federation to prioritize relay qualifications over other events.

Nigeria has already secured a place in the women's 4x400m relay but risks losing this slot due to a drop to 23rd position among 24 available qualifying spots. The qualification window runs from January 1, 2025, to April 5, 2026.

Nigerian athletes will compete at the Bayou Meet at LSU's Bernie Moore Stadium in Baton Rouge on April 3-4, where they aim to achieve better qualifying times. Additionally, Nigeria will participate in the Lefika International Relays in Gaborone on March 28, alongside teams from Poland, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and the host Botswana, as part of their strategy to secure relay slots ahead of the World Athletics Relays scheduled for May 2-3 in Botswana.